Mel Kiper Jr., a renowned NFL draft expert at ESPN, has projected that Gabe Jacas, an outside linebacker from Illinois, will be selected in the second round of the upcoming NFL Draft, specifically at No. 58 overall by the San Francisco 49ers. Kiper emphasized the 49ers' need for defensive reinforcements after finishing last season with only 20 sacks, the lowest in the league. Jacas's impressive performance, which included 11 sacks last season, positions him as a strong candidate to provide much-needed depth for the team. Kiper also highlighted a promising year for Big Ten players, particularly Ohio State, with four athletes projected to be picked among the first seven selections. This includes outside linebacker Arvell Reese, safety Caleb Downs, linebacker Sonny Styles, and receiver Carnell Tate. In total, Kiper expects 11 players from the Big Ten to be drafted in the first round, showcasing the conference's talent.